Episode #149: “Scrolling & Self-Esteem: Body Image in a Digital Age” with Dr. Charlotte Markey

Body image plays a critical role in how we perceive ourselves, relate to others, and make lifestyle decisions. But reaching a place of acceptance (or even joy) with our bodies is no small feat in today’s world of social media, ever-changing beauty standards, and rapidly evolving trends.

On this week’s podcast episodeI sat with Dr. Charlotte MarkeyRutgers University psychologist, research scientist, and body image expert who brings nearly three decades of academic and practical experience.

This episode goes beyond the usual superficial “love yourself” platitudes to provide practical, evidence-based advice to improve the way you see and feel about your body. Dr. Markey’s insights are empowering, practical, and research-based.

In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Markey delves into the nuances of body image, the difference between body positivity and body neutrality, and practical strategies to improve how we feel in our own skin.

Together, we discuss modern influences on body image, debunk myths surrounding body positivity, and explore the cultural messages that have shaped our perceptions of self-esteem.

Whether you’re someone striving to become more comfortable with your own body, a trainer looking for evidence-based information for your clients, or just curious about the psychology of body image, this episode has something for you.

What you will learn in this episode:

• What “body image” really means and why it is important
• The difference between body neutrality and body positivity.
• Why “love yourself” can seem useless and what to aim for instead
• How Focusing on Your Body’s Functionality Encourages a Healthier Mindset
• The powerful role that family, culture, and social pressures play in shaping body image
• Practical tips to reduce body surveillance and improve self-acceptance
• How the Rise of Weight Loss Medications Is Affecting Body Image

About Dr. Charlotte Markey:

Charlotte Markey, Ph.D., is a body image scientist who has studied body image and eating behaviors for nearly three decades. She is passionate about understanding how to help people have a healthy relationship with their body and their food. Charlotte is a professor of psychology at Rutgers University and a research scientist who has published more than 100 academic articles and chapters on health topics.

Dr. Markey is also a book author and recently published The Body Image Book series (The Body Image Book for Girls in 2020; The Body Image Book for Kids in 2022, and Adulthood: The Body Image Book for Life in 2024). He also recently co-edited all three volumes. Encyclopedia of mental health (2023). He writes regularly for media outlets such as Psychology today and is often interviewed for television, news articles and podcasts, including the New York Times, Washington Postand NBC.

For more information about Dr. Markey or her books, visit www.charlottemarkey.com either www.TheBodyImageBook.com.

Follow Dr. Markey on social media:

Resources mentioned in this episode:

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